Welcoming more than 70 million international passengers and connecting 260 destinations to the east and west, thehe Dubai International Airport is the scene of many stopovers.

There's so much to do, it's hard to get bored at this airport.

Let's find out together.

Stopover at Dubai airport: article summary

Dubai airport stopover: eating out

With dozens of dining options, you're sure to find something delicious to eat on your stopover. Take your time with a traditional meal in one of the restaurants, or stop off at one of the in different locations for a gastronomic tour around the world. Middle Eastern, Indian, Thai, Italian, Irish, Tex-Mex and Japanese dishes are available. A culinary way to travel while waiting for your next plane.

Relax in an airport lounge

Spend your stopover like a first-class traveler, even if you're not! Many airport lounges offer access to all travelers, regardless of the airline or class chosen for their trip. The price of admission covers your food and beverage needs. offers a quieter, more comfortable space and decent Wi-Fi speeds. Some areas even have showers. If you'd like to save a little money, I recommend reserving your pass online.

Dubai airport stopover: shopping

Shopping is one of the main activities in the international zone of Dubai airport. You can buy local products such as dried fruit and chocolate. You'll also find plenty of souvenirs for friends and family. If you're feeling lucky, you can also buy raffle tickets. The airport regularly offers silver, gold and luxury cars, so try your luck!

Do a little sightseeing

Dubai airport is just a few minutes from the downtown Dubai. Visiting the city can be the best way to pass the time until your next flight.

Many tour operators offer half-day or full-day excursions in and around the city. Guided tours of the city stop at the Burj Khalifa and other major attractions.

Once downtown, there's plenty to see. Visit Dubai Mall is an impressive shopping center with over 1,000 stores, as well as ice rinks, arcades, playgrounds and countless restaurants. Even if you're not a shopper, it's a must-see.

If you have a little more time on your hands, head to Old Dubai for see the traditional souks, markets selling a multitude of local products.

Take the opportunity to shower

If you've just disembarked from a long-haul flight, a shower may be just what you need. Free showers are available located in terminals 1 and 3although their cleanliness can be questionable.

The health club between terminals 1 and 3 also offers a shower package if you don't want to pay for a more comprehensive package.

Relax or work out in the fitness club

There are worse ways to spend a stopover than relaxing in a sauna or Jacuzzi. The health club next to the Dubai International Hotel is accessible from terminals 1 and 3. The club features a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam room and sauna, a gym and full showers available at extra cost. Packages vary from shower or gym-only options to the full experience.

Take a little nap

You can also take advantage of your stopover to catch up on your sleep! You shouldn't have any problems to take a nap on the spot.

If you see an unoccupied recliner in one of the many rest areas, don't think twice and settle in! You'll be able to get a few hours' sleep while you wait for your next flight.

Dubai airport is perfect, and a stopover here is rarely boring. So, between two long-haul flights, you can relax and regain some energy for the rest of your trip.

You are traveling or moving to the Emirates and would like to know the quickest way to obtain a SIM card in Dubai ?

Whether you're a resident or a tourist, getting a SIM card for yourself is a simple process.

Here I give you all the information you need to buy, activate and use a SIM card in Dubai.

SIM card in Dubai: article summary

What services offer SIM cards in Dubai?

There are three main SIM card services in Dubai to choose from:

• Virgin Mobile
• From
• Etisalat

All these providers offer postpaid and prepaid cell phone plans for calls, SMS and Internet packages. These SIM cards are available at Dubai airport and in many other outlets in the city.

How do I buy a SIM card in Dubai?

Buying a SIM card in Dubai is a simple process. Residents can visit any phone store with their Emirates ID card and select a package that best suits their needs. Tourists can show their visa and passport to get a free SIM card at theDubai International Airport or to buy one in one of the city's stores.

How can I get a free SIM card in Dubai?

Major General Mohammad Al Marri has announced that tourists to Dubai aged 18 and over can obtain a free SIM card. They can visit the passport control officer on arrival at the airport and obtain a new SIM card. Free talk time is three minutes, and the 20 MB navigation data is valid for one month.

How do I activate my free SIM card?

The free SIM card that tourists receive at Dubai International Airport needs to be activated. To activate it, simply dial *122#Enter your passport number, date of arrival and country name. You will receive a confirmation SMS after activation.

What packages are available and at what price?

Tourists can take advantage of a number of different packages on their free SIM card in Dubai

You can get 500 MB of data and 20 minutes of calls for 7 days at a cost of AED 55 (15 €).

For those who need more data, an Internet package of 2 GB with 40 minutes of calls for AED 75 (€21) is also available. This package is valid for 14 days.

Tourists can also obtain a data package from 3.5 GB including 50 minutes of calls for 110 AED (€30). This package is also valid for 14 days.

All call minutes in these packages are valid for international calls.

Why buy a SIM chip in Dubai?

If there's one place in the world where tourists can go without a local SIM card, it would be Dubai. Wi-Fi is literally everywhere. Visit Dubai Mall even claims to have the fastest Wi-Fi in the world. However, things a little more complicated if you want to order a cab in the street or if you're going on a road trip to discover the United Arab Emirates. Having an Internet connection on your phone makes life easier.

A SIM card in Dubai is almost mandatory when you travel to the city. Fortunately, you can take advantage of a free offer that can be topped up later. For example, you'll enjoy Internet access wherever you are on your trip to Dubai.

Would you like to visit the Dubai desert really special?

So get ready to spend a night in the desert and make it an unforgettable experience!

I'll take you on a tour of one of the world's most beautiful deserts by night.

Follow the guide!

Night in the desert Dubai: article summary

Travel the desert with Arabian Adventure

Arabian Adventures' desert night safari is an unforgettable experience. The journey through the Dubai desert is a fantastic opportunity to observe wildlife, while admiring the breathtaking view of the sandbands. Arabian Adventures also offers you the chance to discover this place by night.

You'll be dropped off near the camp after your walk through the dunes. A camel ride from the landing will take you to the campsite, which boasts first-rate facilities. The camps are comfortable, each with a double bed.

A barbecue dinner is served at the gazebo. In addition to grilled meat, your dinner includes:

• fresh salads
• sweets
• beer
• wine and other alcoholic beverages.

In the morning, you'll be served a freshly prepared breakfast, followed by a scenic drive. to observe desert wildlife.

How much does a night safari in the Dubai desert cost?

To enjoy this adventure, you'll need :

• 2,350 AED for a couple (€659)
• 1,360 AED per person (€380)

What are the departure times?

Departure time is 3:30 p.m.The return time is 11 a.m. the following day. However, times may vary according to location.

A night in the desert with Platinium Heritage Safari

Platinum Heritage Desert Safari offers an overnight luxury desert safari in Dubai. You can explore the Dubai reserve in a spacious Range Rover. This tour may be one of the best night safaris in the Dubai desert.

You're likely to spot numerous oryx and Arabian gazelles. Visiting the magnificent desert lake, you'll see migratory birds resting in this sanctuary. The final show, Falcon showwill surely be the most memorable. You sit in the comfortable majlis, drink date juice and watch these magnificent birds twirl around you.

A meal is then prepared by on-site chefs. You can enjoy a feast that includes roast duck, vegetable moussaka, grilled salmon and shrimp. This is followed by chicha, henna painting and the Flaming Sands of Arabia fire show.

How much does the tour cost?

To take advantage of Platinium Heritage Desert Safari's services, count :

• 1,595 AED per adult (€447)
• 1,295 AED per child (€363)

What are the departure and arrival times?

The desert tourism company picks you up between 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. depending on the season. It drops you off at your hotel the following day between 9:30 pm and 11:30 pm.

Choose Rayna to visit the desert by night

A desert safari with Rayna allows you to enjoy Emirati culture and relax. Thanks to Rayna's planning, you can sit in the desert and admire the magnificent starry sky.

For those who are not used to these sandy valleys, the ride through the dunes is fascinating. After the trip, you can look forward to the rest of the evening's activities. Here you can make the most of Bedouin culture.

How much does the tour cost?

To take advantage of this exceptional desert outing with Rayna, you'll need to spend at least 340 AED (€95). Of course, depending on the options you choose, this price may be higher.

What are the pick-up times?

The Rayna tourist company picks you up between 3:30 and 4 p.m.. You'll then travel to the desert for an unforgettable experience.

Travel with Arabian Horizon

Contemplating the starry sky must be one of life's simplest pleasures. In a soothing desert setting, this experience is beautiful and calming. A night safari in the desert with Arabian Horizon is synonymous with adventure, fun and pleasure.

In addition to all the traditional desert safari activities, you can also opt to try your hand at quad biking and sandboarding for a small extra charge.

How much does this visit cost?

To enjoy the desert tour with Arabian Horizon, you must count :

• 499 AED per adult (€140)

What time does the tour start?

You will be picked up at your hotel between 3:30 pm and 4 pm.

Desert Life Tourism to discover the desert from another angle

Desert Life Tourism offers a magical and relaxing experience with its night safari in the desert. Discover the golden sands of Dubai in the dark. Immerse yourself in Arab culture and try on traditional clothes, smoke shisha and enjoy belly dancing and tanoura.

You can also go quad biking or camel riding. The most memorable part of the night will be resting in your sleeping bags. In the morning, after breakfast, you'll be taken back to your hotel.

How much does this desert night safari in Dubai cost?

To take advantage of this excursion, you will need :

• 263 AED per person (€73)

Here again, depending on the activities chosen, the price may be higher.

What are the pick-up times?

The vehicle picks you up at your home around 3 p.m.. The next day, he'll drive you back to Dubai around 8 a.m. after the nightly desert safari.

There are many companies offering you the chance to spend the night in the Dubai desert. Each of them offers different activities in order to to make your evening unforgettable.

Another must-see destination in the United Arab Emirates, it's not unusual to see tourists visit Abu Dhabi after their visit to Dubai.

I tell you in detail about the things to see and do in this other big city of the Emirates.

Visit Abu Dhabi: article summary

Dine and watch the sunset at Yas Bay

Whether you're looking for a place to go out with friends or simply a romantic dinner, you're spoilt for choice at Yas Bay! Yas Island's leisure and entertainment center boasts a three-kilometre-long promenade with restaurants and magnificent views of the Persian Gulf.

There's also Pier71, which offers a host of restaurants including Asia Asia, Daikan Izakaya and Paradiso. The venue is opposite the five-star Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island hotel. In the evening, Cafe del Mare is the place to dance the night away.

As well as restaurants, there's also the Etihad Arena, which hosts events such as concerts, stand-up shows and UFC fight nights.

Explore Al-Qana

This neighborhood is home to a number of restaurants and cafés that you must visit if you're ever in Abu Dhabi. Whether you're looking for a bite to eat or a leisurely stroll, there's plenty to do! Home to the National Aquariumthe largest of its kind in the Middle East, and the Bridge Lifestyle Hub, an 8,000 square metre wellness area.

Enjoy the opulence of the Emirates Palace

The five-star Emirates Palace luxury hotel continues to be a favorite with tourists since it opened in 2005. The hotel is known for its opulence, with the majority of its suites furnished in gold and marble.

Head to the hotel café for a cappuccino with 23-carat gold flakes, a camel burger or afternoon tea. For those not staying overnight, there are also a number of gourmet restaurants such as :

• Talea by Antonio Guida
• Hemant Oberoi's Martabaan
• Las Brisas
• Mezlai

Learn more about Abu Dhabi's history at Qasr Al Hosn

Discover Abu Dhabi's extraordinary history by visiting its oldest heritage site: Al Hosn. Sections of this site date back to the 1760's. It is also home to the Qasr Al Hosn, the capital's oldest and most important historic building. home to the royal family for centuries and was the seat of the emirate's original government.

Other major components of the complex include the Cultural Foundation, established in 1981, dedicated to the preservation and promotion of traditional Emirati crafts and practices.

Adventure at West Bay Abu Dhabi

West Bay Abu Dhabi is a popular beach and sunset spot for all tourists. For those who wish to dine, find places like West Bay Lounge, Blu Ocean Cafe and Escape Beach Bar.

You'll also find water sports centers, a fitness center and a spa. There's also an adventure park, offering :

• a zip-line
• a rope course
• a wave pool
• an outdoor climbing park.

Visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi

If it's culture you're after, then Louvre Abu Dhabi should be your first port of call on any visit to the emirate. Surrounded by the Persian Gulf, the gleaming silver dome of the first world museum of the arab world has an almost futuristic architecture. Inside, the exhibits change regularly, often on loan from the world's most visited museum, the Louvre in France.

The museum park is also a great place for a stroll, with many outdoor exhibits. If you're feeling adventurous, you can sign up for kayaking around the museum. Tours depart every evening at sunset and require pre-booking. If you're with the family, don't miss the Children's Museum, with its interactive exhibits.

Take a stroll through Qasr Al Watan

One of the newest cultural features you can visit in Abu Dhabi is the breathtaking Qasr Al Watan. Located on the waterfront near the Emirates Palace, located inside the presidential palace grounds. Visitors can learn more about the traditions and values of the United Arab Emirates by exploring this structure.

Stroll through the ornate corridors of the National Palace, home to a multitude of exhibits, objects and architecture. For a special experience, visit the site on Thursday, Friday or Saturday evening. You'll be treated to an impressive sound and light show: Palace in Motion.

Marvel at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

You don't want to miss the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque when you visit Abu Dhabi. It is one of the largest mosques in the world. It is open to the public to help visitors better understand the emirate's cultural and religious beliefs.

The sprawling monument can accommodate up to 55,000 people at a time, and tours are free at all times. It took 10 years to build the mosque. It includes :

• 82 white marble domes
• 1,096 amethyst-encrusted columns
• gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers
• a courtyard featuring one of the world's largest works of marble mosaic art.

If you'd like to visit Abu Dhabi, there are plenty of places to visit to enjoy a unique trip to the heart of the United Arab Emirates. A city not to be missed if you wish to spend some quiet time just a few minutes from the hectic streets of Dubai.

Dubai has many neighborhoods.

Some of Dubai's neighborhoods have their own municipality, and others have a city council that caters to their needs.

In this article, I'll introduce you to Dubai's different neighborhoods.

Dubai neighborhood: article summary

Dubai district: Marina de Dubai

Dubai Marina is one of the city's most densely populated areas. The district is developing as a residential area and offers a high standard of living. Companies such as restaurants, cafés and stores lining the streets.

Dubai Marina is home to a number of hotels offering visitors essential services in their establishments. It's also a hub for tourists, especially on weekends, when many events take place.

Palm Jumeirah

Visit Palm Jumeirah covers an area of 5 km² and is located on a peninsula of land extending into Dubai's coastal waters. Palm Jumeirah comprises two islands; Palm Jumeirah and Palm Deira. The Palm Islands are artificial islands built by the Dubai Land Department on dredged sand.

The palm-tree shape of this artificial island gives the place the reputation of being one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. You can even see the Palm Jumeirah from space.

Downtown Dubai 

Visit downtown Dubai is the business district, but it's also a commercial and cultural district. It's one of Dubai's fastest-growing districts.

Today, the city center has become a mixed-use area with residential towers and high-rise offices, shopping malls and hotels combined with modern infrastructure. It is home to most of the world's corporate headquarters and a favorite spot for expatriate financiers. This is also where you'll find some of the world's finest luxury hotels.

The Business Bay

Business Bay is one of Dubai's newest neighborhoods, and home to many of the city's leading companies and businesses. With a population of more than 44,000 peopleIt has achieved a standard of living considered high by international standards. Considered one of Dubai's most developed neighborhoods, it attracts many international companies.

Here, you'll enjoy a fantastic setting in which to live or work. You'll enjoy a distinctive lifestyle with access to many amenities, including extensive retail, dining and entertainment facilities.

Dubai district: Deïra

The Deïra district is one of Dubai's central districts. There are restaurants and stores, and several residential buildings are under construction. The standard of living is moderately high, and development is on the rise.

The population of Deira district was 274,800 in 2013, an increase of 13.0 % compared with 2005. The district has a high standard of living, with an average family income of €23,936 per year. A very high salary compared to the national average of €4,879.

Bur Dubai

Bur Dubai is the most densely populated district in Dubai, with nearly 580,000 inhabitants. It features many well-known sites such as the Gold Souk. The area is also known for its lively nightlife and vibrant atmosphere.

This is one of the city's oldest and most concentrated districts, with many traditional-style buildings. A major tourist attraction is the house of the family of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Dubai district: Al Karama

Al Karama is mainly a residential area. Residents have access to all the major hospitals and private clinics in the Al Karama area, as well as to health centers. The Western Health Center and the Dubai Maternity Hospital are located at near the Al Karama district.

Al Karama is one of Dubai's most dynamic neighborhoods. It is adjacent to Al Rigga Road and Al Mankhool Road. It was built to take advantage of its proximity to essential facilities such as schools, offices, stores, restaurants and mosques. The social life of the residents revolves around these installations.

Al Satva

The Al Satwa district has many stores, restaurants, cafés and supermarkets. It's a trendy neighborhood, having gained popularity in recent years thanks to inexpensive boutiques, affordable cafés and stores in old Arab buildings renovated traditional houses. The main road through this area is called "the street", as many small streets branch off from it.

Dubai district: Mirdif

Mirdif is a small district of Dubai with a population of 55,600. Mirdif is an independent municipality and has its own municipal council in charge of its affairs. The standard of living in Mirdif is very high, and there are numerous leisure facilities such as the Dubai Tennis Course and the Emirates Golf Club.

Al Wasi

Al Wasi is located in Oud Metha, overlooking the Dubai Water Canal. The border of this district is Sheikh Rashid RoadIts main streets stretch from Airport Road to Oud Metha Street and from Hamdan Street to Al Kabeer Road. It is home to around 36,000 people living in villas. spread over some 92 hectares.

Al Wasi is a well-developed residential area with a high standard of living; the lack of social infrastructure makes life difficult for many residents. Al Wasi boasts a modern shopping center called Al Fattan Shopping Centre, which caters to the needs of the local community.

Dubailand

Dubailand is the world's largest resort, residence and entertainment destination. It is home to many attractions, including theme parks, golf courses and luxury hotels.

It has a total population of over 150,000. Living standards are steadily improving as new projects spring up in the district. The area has been designed with sustainable development in mind, with green spaces and drinking water systems to help protect flora and fauna.

Dubai district: Al Seef

Al Seef is located in the Central Business District. It has an accommodation density of more than 150 people/haThis is lower than in most other areas of Dubai. Al Seef is one of Dubai's most exclusive and expensive residential areas.

In Dubai, you'll find beautiful landscapes, pristine beaches and incredible views. Dubai is dotted with beautiful neighborhoods that have their own distinct identity. It's up to you to visit them all!

Featuring local and global cuisines, Dubai is the perfect place to find the world's best restaurants.

I've sorted out the best restaurants in town for you in 2022.

This article will whet your appetite.

Best restaurant in Dubai: article summary

Best Dubai restaurant: Le Stay by Yannick Alléno

Located in the island enclave of Palm JumeirahStay by Yannick Alléno is one of only two restaurants in Dubai to hold two Michelin stars. Offering Alléno's signature take on classic French cuisine, a meal at Stay is nothing short of an epicurean adventure, with a series of surprise tasting menus featuring the finest ingredients.

These days, service is becoming as important as the food itself in creating a successful restaurant, and Stay seems to have it all figured out. Servers are competent without being pretentious and helpful without being intrusive. The setting itself is equally thoughtful, with a high-ceilinged dining room adorned with vibrant artwork setting the tone for a very special dining experience to come.

As this is one of Dubai's most sought-after venues, I recommend that you reserve your place. before going to the restaurant. You'll be sure to get a place to sample the fine food on offer.

The venue opens :

• From Tuesday to Sunday, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Il Ristorante

The second Dubai restaurant to be awarded two Michelin stars is Il Ristorante by Niko Romitolocated in the incredibly luxurious hotel Bulgari. The Italian chef has long been renowned for his light, healthy yet richly flavored gourmet cuisine.

Although there's a vast a la carte offering, if you're in Dubai, you're probably not someone who does things by halves, so choose Degustazione menu. It will bring you all the flavours of Italy in a single meal!

The restaurant opens :

• Every day from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Best Dubai restaurant: Hakkasan

The Hakkasan group is no stranger to Michelin stars, with both its London restaurants holding one star. Now, Hakkasan Dubai has proudly joined the trio. In a festive atmosphere, you enjoy quality food.

Hakkasan serves contemporary Chinese cuisine in the form of an à la carte menu. However, you can also enjoy a buffet-style menu with a multitude of dishes. For me personally, I recommend the lobster with lychee. A real delight!

Hakkasan opens:

• Every day from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Al Muntaha

Sitting on the 27ᵉ floor of the iconic Burj Al ArabAl Muntaha occupies what is easily one of the most coveted spots in the whole of Dubai. Ask for a table by the bay window for the best views of the city. Headed by chef Saverio Sbaragli, the restaurant is firmly rooted in European cuisine, with classic French flavors blending harmoniously with a few Mediterranean touches.

The result is a menu full of daring dishes which have earned Al Muntaha a coveted Michelin star. There's also an impressive list of champagnes for special occasions.

For opening times, you can visit Al Muntaha :

• Daily from 12:30 to 14:30 and from 19:00 to 22:00

Ristorante L'Olivo in Al Mahara

Capri's Michelin-starred Ristorante L'Olivo is one of the best places to eat in Dubai. Located on the Burj Al ArabL'Olivo is still a relative newcomer to Dubai's competitive culinary scene, but it's not over yet. customers are already raving about chef Andréa Migliaccio's culinary delights.

Drawing as much on the flavors of Italy as Dubai, the menu at Ristorante L'Olivo in Al Mahara is rich in seafood, with an emphasis on flavor and culinary craftsmanship.

You can visit us on site:

• Every day from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Best Dubai restaurant: Le Fi'lia

A successful restaurant chain in the USA and the Bahamas, Fi'lia brought its touch of Italian cuisine to the UAE in 2021. Although it is one of the city's newest restaurants, it is already acquiring a reputation for being one of the best restaurants on the Dubai culinary scene. It has even been awarded a Michelin Big Gourmand. Fi'lia offers succulent cuisine and superb views of the cityscape from its vantage point. on the 70ᵉ floor of SLS Dubai. What sets it apart, however, is not its location or its menu, but its all-female team.

Jordanian-Palestinian chef Sara Aqel offers an authentic taste of Italian cuisine. A perfect place if you want to treat yourself to the best carbonara in town, or simply enjoy an artichoke dish à la Romaine.

The venue opens :

• Every day from 12 p.m. to midnight

If you're ever in Dubai, I urge you to try these restaurants. In addition to the quality of their food, you'll be able to enjoy a view of the whole city and make your meal an exceptional moment!